Palauea Beach White Rock
Stunning sandy beach in Wailea-Makena, famous for sea turtle sightings, vibrant snorkeling, and breathtaking sunsets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Palauea Beach White Rock
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Stunning sandy beach in Wailea-Makena, famous for sea turtle sightings, vibrant snorkeling, and breathtaking sunsets.
"Absolutely beautiful beach. We got to snorkel with the turtles that were here!!!"
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking is available along the side of the road near the beach entrance. Arrive early for the best spots!
🤿 Snorkel Gear
Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the underwater world and spot turtles near the rocks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sea Turtle Encounters
Near the rocky areas
Witness majestic sea turtles gracefully swimming and basking near the shore. A truly magical wildlife experience!
White Rock Formation
Southern end of the beach
The iconic 'White Rock' offers a unique landmark and a great spot for photos, especially during sunset.
Snorkeling Paradise
Around the coral reefs
Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish. A fantastic spot for snorkeling, even for beginners.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ocean Safety First
Turtle Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking is available along the side of the road near the beach entrance. Arrive early for the best spots!
🤿 Snorkel Gear
Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the underwater world and spot turtles near the rocks.
🌅 Sunset Views
This beach offers incredible sunset views. Stay late to catch the magical colors over the ocean.
🌊 Respect the Waves
Be aware of powerful shore breaks. Always prioritize safety and listen to lifeguard advice.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking is available along the side of the road near the beach entrance. Arrive early for the best spots!
🤿 Snorkel Gear
Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the underwater world and spot turtles near the rocks.
🌅 Sunset Views
This beach offers incredible sunset views. Stay late to catch the magical colors over the ocean.
🌊 Respect the Waves
Be aware of powerful shore breaks. Always prioritize safety and listen to lifeguard advice.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Palauea Beach is overwhelmingly praised for its stunning beauty, incredible sunset views, and the magical opportunity to snorkel with sea turtles. Visitors consistently describe it as a favorite beach in the area, offering a peaceful and memorable experience. Some note the powerful shore breaks as a point of caution.
"Super gorgeous beach! Definitely one of my favorite beaches I’ve been to in this area. Beautiful memories with my friends were made here"
Rovi Bartolo
"Beautiful public beach. Incredible sunset views, super chill. There lots of turtles as well. You have some parking in the entrance of the beach"
Nicole Fox
"Beautiful beach, came here during the sunset. Beach was clean and stunning"
Vanessa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Palauea Beach, also known as White Rock Beach, is easily accessible in Wailea-Makena. Simply search for 'Makena Beach' or 'Palauea Beach' on your GPS. Parking is available along the roadside near the beach entrance.
Yes, there is roadside parking available near the entrance to Palauea Beach. It can get busy, so arriving earlier in the day is recommended for easier parking.
Yes, it's quite straightforward to find. Google Maps will guide you to Makena Beach, and you'll find the entrance to Palauea Beach from there.
Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring South Maui's beaches like Palauea. Ride-sharing services are also available, but a car offers more flexibility.
Palauea Beach is located in Wailea-Makena, close to the Shops of Wailea, Makena Golf and Beach Resort, and other beautiful Wailea beaches.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Palauea Beach is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy its beauty and amenities free of charge.
Palauea Beach is open to the public from sunrise to sunset. There are no official closing times, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
No, advance booking is not required for Palauea Beach as it is a public beach. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
While Palauea Beach is a natural beauty, it generally lacks extensive facilities like restrooms or showers. It's advisable to come prepared.
Palauea Beach is suitable for swimming, but visitors should be aware of potential shore breaks and currents. Always assess conditions before entering the water.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can swim, snorkel among coral and fish, sunbathe, and enjoy the stunning sunset views. It's also a prime spot for spotting sea turtles.
Absolutely! Palauea Beach offers excellent snorkeling opportunities, especially around the rocky areas where you can see colorful fish and sea turtles.
Yes, Palauea Beach is well-known for its frequent sea turtle sightings. They often frequent the rocky areas on the right side of the beach.
While beautiful, the shore breaks can be strong, so families with very young children should exercise caution. Older children and adults can enjoy swimming and snorkeling.
Early mornings offer calmer waters and fewer crowds, while sunsets provide breathtaking views. Both are fantastic times to visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The White Rock formation itself is a prime photo spot. The coastline, especially during sunrise and sunset, offers stunning backdrops.
Palauea Beach is renowned for its spectacular sunset views, making it a photographer's dream during the golden hour.
Portrait photography, especially engagement and family shoots, is very popular here due to the beautiful scenery and natural light.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's always best to check current FAA and local Maui guidelines before flying a drone.
Besides your camera, consider bringing a tripod for low-light conditions and a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive ocean views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring plenty of sunscreen, hats, and water as there are limited facilities. The chance to see sea turtles is a huge hit with kids, so pack your snorkel gear and prepare for an educational and exciting wildlife experience. Just remember to maintain a safe and respectful distance from the turtles.
🐢 Wildlife Enthusiasts
Remember to pack your snorkeling gear and be prepared to spend time exploring the underwater world. Always practice responsible wildlife viewing: keep your distance, avoid touching or feeding the animals, and leave no trace. The chance to see Honu in their natural habitat is a truly special experience.
📸 Photographers
+1Beyond sunsets, the beach offers opportunities for portrait photography with its stunning natural backdrop. Whether you're capturing family moments, engagements, or simply the beauty of Maui, the beach provides a picturesque setting. Consider visiting in the early morning for softer light and fewer crowds, or late afternoon for the magical golden hour.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Ocean Conditions
When the ocean is calm, Palauea Beach is an ideal spot for snorkeling. The rocky areas, particularly on the southern end, are home to vibrant coral reefs and a diverse array of marine life, including numerous sea turtles. These gentle giants are a major draw for visitors, offering unforgettable wildlife encounters. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing them.
Beyond the water activities, the beach offers a serene environment for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of Maui. The iconic 'White Rock' formation adds a unique visual element, and the beach is a popular spot for capturing breathtaking sunset photography.
+1Wildlife Encounters: Sea Turtles
It's vital to remember that these are wild animals and deserve our respect. Federal law mandates that you stay at least 10 feet away from sea turtles on land and in the water. Never touch, feed, or chase them, as this can cause them stress and harm their natural behaviors. Observing them from a distance allows them to thrive in their natural habitat.
Photographers and nature enthusiasts will find Palauea Beach a prime location for capturing images of these incredible animals. The best times to spot them are often in the early morning or late afternoon when they are most active. Remember to use a zoom lens to get close-up shots without disturbing the turtles.
Photography at Palauea Beach
+1Beyond sunsets, the beach offers diverse photographic opportunities. The natural beauty of the coastline, the textures of the sand and rocks, and the chance to capture sea turtles in their element make it a versatile location. Portrait photographers often choose Palauea Beach for its picturesque backdrop, whether for engagement photos, family portraits, or simply capturing the essence of a Maui vacation.
+1When planning your photo session, consider the time of day for optimal lighting. Early mornings can offer softer light and fewer crowds, while the late afternoon is perfect for dramatic sunset hues. Remember to bring appropriate gear, such as a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive ocean views and a tripod for low-light photography during sunset.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit